U.S. Pat. No. 11,013,984

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF NON-LIMITING EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Before a spherical controller according to an exemplary embodiment is described, a description is given of a game system where the spherical controller is used. An example of a game system1according to the exemplary embodiment includes a main body apparatus (an information processing apparatus; which functions as a game apparatus main body in the exemplary embodiment)2, a left controller3, and a right controller4. Each of the left controller3and the right controller4is attachable to and detachable from the main body apparatus2. That is, the game system1can be used as a unified apparatus obtained by attaching each of the left controller3and the right controller4to the main body apparatus2. Further, in the game system1, the main body apparatus2, the left controller3, and the right controller4can also be used as separate bodies (seeFIG. 2). Hereinafter, first, the hardware configuration of the game system1according to the exemplary embodiment is described, and then, the control of the game system1according to the exemplary embodiment is described.

FIG. 1is a diagram showing an example of the state where the left controller3and the right controller4are attached to the main body apparatus2. As shown inFIG. 1, each of the left controller3and the right controller4is attached to and unified with the main body apparatus2. The main body apparatus2is an apparatus for performing various processes (e.g., game processing) in the game system1. The main body apparatus2includes a display12. Each of the left controller3and the right controller4is an apparatus including operation sections with which a user provides inputs.

FIG. 2is a diagram showing an example of the state where each of the left controller3and the right controller4is detached from the main body apparatus2. As shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, the left controller3and the right controller4are attachable to and detachable from the main body apparatus2. It should be noted that hereinafter, the left controller3and the right controller4will occasionally be referred to collectively as a “controller”.

FIG. 3is six orthogonal views showing an example of the main body apparatus2. As shown inFIG. 3, the main body apparatus2includes an approximately plate-shaped housing11. In the exemplary embodiment, a main surface (in other words, a surface on a front side, i.e., a surface on which the display12is provided) of the housing11has a generally rectangular shape.

It should be noted that the shape and the size of the housing11are optional. As an example, the housing11may be of a portable size. Further, the main body apparatus2alone or the unified apparatus obtained by attaching the left controller3and the right controller4to the main body apparatus2may function as a mobile apparatus. The main body apparatus2or the unified apparatus may function as a handheld apparatus or a portable apparatus.

As shown inFIG. 3, the main body apparatus2includes the display12, which is provided on the main surface of the housing11. The display12displays an image generated by the main body apparatus2. In the exemplary embodiment, the display12is a liquid crystal display device (LCD). The display12, however, may be a display device of any type.

Further, the main body apparatus2includes a touch panel13on a screen of the display12. In the exemplary embodiment, the touch panel13is of a type that allows a multi-touch input (e.g., a capacitive type). The touch panel13, however, may be of any type. For example, the touch panel13may be of a type that allows a single-touch input (e.g., a resistive type).

The main body apparatus2includes speakers (i.e., speakers88shown inFIG. 6) within the housing11. As shown inFIG. 3, speaker holes11aand11bare formed on the main surface of the housing11. Then, sounds output from the speakers88are output through the speaker holes11aand11b.

Further, the main body apparatus2includes a left terminal17, which is a terminal for the main body apparatus2to perform wired communication with the left controller3, and a right terminal21, which is a terminal for the main body apparatus2to perform wired communication with the right controller4.

As shown inFIG. 3, the main body apparatus2includes a slot23. The slot23is provided on an upper side surface of the housing11. The slot23is so shaped as to allow a predetermined type of storage medium to be attached to the slot23. The predetermined type of storage medium is, for example, a dedicated storage medium (e.g., a dedicated memory card) for the game system1and an information processing apparatus of the same type as the game system1. The predetermined type of storage medium is used to store, for example, data (e.g., saved data of an application or the like) used by the main body apparatus2and/or a program (e.g., a program for an application or the like) executed by the main body apparatus2. Further, the main body apparatus2includes a power button28.

The main body apparatus2includes a lower terminal27. The lower terminal27is a terminal for the main body apparatus2to communicate with a cradle. In the exemplary embodiment, the lower terminal27is a USB connector (more specifically, a female connector). Further, when the unified apparatus or the main body apparatus2alone is mounted on the cradle, the game system1can display on a stationary monitor an image generated by and output from the main body apparatus2. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, the cradle has the function of charging the unified apparatus or the main body apparatus2alone mounted on the cradle. Further, the cradle has the function of a hub device (specifically, a USB hub).

FIG. 4is six orthogonal views showing an example of the left controller3. As shown inFIG. 4, the left controller3includes a housing31. In the exemplary embodiment, the housing31has a vertically long shape, i.e., is shaped to be long in an up-down direction (i.e., a y-axis direction shown inFIGS. 1 and 4). In the state where the left controller3is detached from the main body apparatus2, the left controller3can also be held in the orientation in which the left controller3is vertically long. The housing31has such a shape and a size that when held in the orientation in which the housing31is vertically long, the housing31can be held with one hand, particularly the left hand. Further, the left controller3can also be held in the orientation in which the left controller3is horizontally long. When held in the orientation in which the left controller3is horizontally long, the left controller3may be held with both hands.

The left controller3includes an analog stick32. As shown inFIG. 4, the analog stick32is provided on a main surface of the housing31. The analog stick32can be used as a direction input section with which a direction can be input. The user tilts the analog stick32and thereby can input a direction corresponding to the direction of the tilt (and input a magnitude corresponding to the angle of the tilt). It should be noted that the left controller3may include a directional pad, a slide stick that allows a slide input, or the like as the direction input section, instead of the analog stick. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, it is possible to provide an input by pressing the analog stick32.

The left controller3includes various operation buttons. The left controller3includes four operation buttons33to36(specifically, a right direction button33, a down direction button34, an up direction button35, and a left direction button36) on the main surface of the housing31. Further, the left controller3includes a record button37and a “−” (minus) button47. The left controller3includes a first L-button38and a ZL-button39in an upper left portion of a side surface of the housing31. Further, the left controller3includes a second L-button43and a second R-button44, on the side surface of the housing31on which the left controller3is attached to the main body apparatus2. These operation buttons are used to give instructions depending on various programs (e.g., an OS program and an application program) executed by the main body apparatus2.

Further, the left controller3includes a terminal42for the left controller3to perform wired communication with the main body apparatus2.

FIG. 5is six orthogonal views showing an example of the right controller4. As shown inFIG. 5, the right controller4includes a housing51. In the exemplary embodiment, the housing51has a vertically long shape, i.e., is shaped to be long in the up-down direction. In the state where the right controller4is detached from the main body apparatus2, the right controller4can also be held in the orientation in which the right controller4is vertically long. The housing51has such a shape and a size that when held in the orientation in which the housing51is vertically long, the housing51can be held with one hand, particularly the right hand. Further, the right controller4can also be held in the orientation in which the right controller4is horizontally long. When held in the orientation in which the right controller4is horizontally long, the right controller4may be held with both hands.

Similarly to the left controller3, the right controller4includes an analog stick52as a direction input section. In the exemplary embodiment, the analog stick52has the same configuration as that of the analog stick32of the left controller3. Further, the right controller4may include a directional pad, a slide stick that allows a slide input, or the like, instead of the analog stick. Further, similarly to the left controller3, the right controller4includes four operation buttons53to56(specifically, an A-button53, a B-button54, an X-button55, and a Y-button56) on a main surface of the housing51. Further, the right controller4includes a “+” (plus) button57and a home button58. Further, the right controller4includes a first R-button60and a ZR-button61in an upper right portion of a side surface of the housing51. Further, similarly to the left controller3, the right controller4includes a second L-button65and a second R-button66.

Further, the right controller4includes a terminal64for the right controller4to perform wired communication with the main body apparatus2.

FIG. 6is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the main body apparatus2. The main body apparatus2includes components81to91,97, and98shown inFIG. 6in addition to the components shown inFIG. 3. Some of the components81to91,97, and98may be mounted as electronic components on an electronic circuit board and accommodated in the housing11.

The main body apparatus2includes a processor81. The processor81is an information processing section for executing various types of information processing to be executed by the main body apparatus2. For example, the processor81may be composed only of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), or may be composed of a SoC (System-on-a-chip) having a plurality of functions such as a CPU function and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) function. The processor81executes an information processing program (e.g., a game program) stored in a storage section (specifically, an internal storage medium such as a flash memory84, an external storage medium attached to the slot23, or the like), thereby performing the various types of information processing.

The main body apparatus2includes a flash memory84and a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)85as examples of internal storage media built into the main body apparatus2. The flash memory84and the DRAM85are connected to the processor81. The flash memory84is a memory mainly used to store various data (or programs) to be saved in the main body apparatus2. The DRAM85is a memory used to temporarily store various data used for information processing.

The main body apparatus2includes a slot interface (hereinafter abbreviated as “I/F”)91. The slot I/F91is connected to the processor81. The slot I/F91is connected to the slot23, and in accordance with an instruction from the processor81, reads and writes data from and to the predetermined type of storage medium (e.g., a dedicated memory card) attached to the slot23.

The processor81appropriately reads and writes data from and to the flash memory84, the DRAM85, and each of the above storage media, thereby performing the above information processing.

The main body apparatus2includes a network communication section82. The network communication section82is connected to the processor81. The network communication section82communicates (specifically, through wireless communication) with an external apparatus via a network. In the exemplary embodiment, as a first communication form, the network communication section82connects to a wireless LAN and communicates with an external apparatus, using a method compliant with the Wi-Fi standard. Further, as a second communication form, the network communication section82wirelessly communicates with another main body apparatus2of the same type, using a predetermined communication method (e.g., communication based on a unique protocol or infrared light communication). It should be noted that the wireless communication in the above second communication form achieves the function of enabling so-called “local communication” in which the main body apparatus2can wirelessly communicate with another main body apparatus2placed in a closed local network area, and the plurality of main body apparatuses2directly communicate with each other to transmit and receive data.

The main body apparatus2includes a controller communication section83. The controller communication section83is connected to the processor81. The controller communication section83wirelessly communicates with the left controller3and/or the right controller4. The communication method between the main body apparatus2and the left controller3and the right controller4is optional. In the exemplary embodiment, the controller communication section83performs communication compliant with the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard with the left controller3and with the right controller4.

The processor81is connected to the left terminal17, the right terminal21, and the lower terminal27. When performing wired communication with the left controller3, the processor81transmits data to the left controller3via the left terminal17and also receives operation data from the left controller3via the left terminal17. Further, when performing wired communication with the right controller4, the processor81transmits data to the right controller4via the right terminal21and also receives operation data from the right controller4via the right terminal21. Further, when communicating with the cradle, the processor81transmits data to the cradle via the lower terminal27. As described above, in the exemplary embodiment, the main body apparatus2can perform both wired communication and wireless communication with each of the left controller3and the right controller4. Further, when the unified apparatus obtained by attaching the left controller3and the right controller4to the main body apparatus2or the main body apparatus2alone is attached to the cradle, the main body apparatus2can output data (e.g., image data or sound data) to the stationary monitor or the like via the cradle.

Here, the main body apparatus2can communicate with a plurality of left controllers3simultaneously (in other words, in parallel). Further, the main body apparatus2can communicate with a plurality of right controllers4simultaneously (in other words, in parallel). Thus, a plurality of users can simultaneously provide inputs to the main body apparatus2, each using a set of the left controller3and the right controller4. As an example, a first user can provide an input to the main body apparatus2using a first set of the left controller3and the right controller4, and simultaneously, a second user can provide an input to the main body apparatus2using a second set of the left controller3and the right controller4.

The main body apparatus2includes a touch panel controller86, which is a circuit for controlling the touch panel13. The touch panel controller86is connected between the touch panel13and the processor81. Based on a signal from the touch panel13, the touch panel controller86generates, for example, data indicating the position where a touch input is provided. Then, the touch panel controller86outputs the data to the processor81.

Further, the display12is connected to the processor81. The processor81displays a generated image (e.g., an image generated by executing the above information processing) and/or an externally acquired image on the display12.

The main body apparatus2includes a codec circuit87and speakers (specifically, a left speaker and a right speaker)88. The codec circuit87is connected to the speakers88and a sound input/output terminal25and also connected to the processor81. The codec circuit87is a circuit for controlling the input and output of sound data to and from the speakers88and the sound input/output terminal25.

Further, the main body apparatus2includes an acceleration sensor89. In the exemplary embodiment, the acceleration sensor89detects the magnitudes of accelerations along predetermined three axial (e.g., xyz axes shown inFIG. 1) directions. It should be noted that the acceleration sensor89may detect an acceleration along one axial direction or accelerations along two axial directions.

Further, the main body apparatus2includes an angular velocity sensor90. In the exemplary embodiment, the angular velocity sensor90detects angular velocities about predetermined three axes (e.g., the xyz axes shown inFIG. 1). It should be noted that the angular velocity sensor90may detect an angular velocity about one axis or angular velocities about two axes.

The acceleration sensor89and the angular velocity sensor90are connected to the processor81, and the detection results of the acceleration sensor89and the angular velocity sensor90are output to the processor81. Based on the detection results of the acceleration sensor89and the angular velocity sensor90, the processor81can calculate information regarding the motion and/or the orientation of the main body apparatus2.

The main body apparatus2includes a power control section97and a battery98. The power control section97is connected to the battery98and the processor81. Further, although not shown inFIG. 6, the power control section97is connected to components of the main body apparatus2(specifically, components that receive power supplied from the battery98, the left terminal17, and the right terminal21). Based on a command from the processor81, the power control section97controls the supply of power from the battery98to the above components.

Further, the battery98is connected to the lower terminal27. When an external charging device (e.g., the cradle) is connected to the lower terminal27, and power is supplied to the main body apparatus2via the lower terminal27, the battery98is charged with the supplied power.

FIG. 7is a block diagram showing examples of the internal configurations of the main body apparatus2, the left controller3, and the right controller4. It should be noted that the details of the internal configuration of the main body apparatus2are shown inFIG. 6and therefore are omitted inFIG. 7.

The left controller3includes a communication control section101, which communicates with the main body apparatus2. As shown inFIG. 7, the communication control section101is connected to components including the terminal42. In the exemplary embodiment, the communication control section101can communicate with the main body apparatus2through both wired communication via the terminal42and wireless communication not via the terminal42. The communication control section101controls the method for communication performed by the left controller3with the main body apparatus2. That is, when the left controller3is attached to the main body apparatus2, the communication control section101communicates with the main body apparatus2via the terminal42. Further, when the left controller3is detached from the main body apparatus2, the communication control section101wirelessly communicates with the main body apparatus2(specifically, the controller communication section83). The wireless communication between the communication control section101and the controller communication section83is performed in accordance with the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard, for example.

Further, the left controller3includes a memory102such as a flash memory. The communication control section101includes, for example, a microcomputer (or a microprocessor) and executes firmware stored in the memory102, thereby performing various processes.

The left controller3includes buttons103(specifically, the buttons33to39,43,44, and47). Further, the left controller3includes the analog stick (“stick” inFIG. 7)32. Each of the buttons103and the analog stick32outputs information regarding an operation performed on itself to the communication control section101repeatedly at appropriate timing.

The left controller3includes inertial sensors. Specifically, the left controller3includes an acceleration sensor104. Further, the left controller3includes an angular velocity sensor105. In the exemplary embodiment, the acceleration sensor104detects the magnitudes of accelerations along predetermined three axial (e.g., xyz axes shown inFIG. 4) directions. It should be noted that the acceleration sensor104may detect an acceleration along one axial direction or accelerations along two axial directions. In the exemplary embodiment, the angular velocity sensor105detects angular velocities about predetermined three axes (e.g., the xyz axes shown inFIG. 4). It should be noted that the angular velocity sensor105may detect an angular velocity about one axis or angular velocities about two axes. Each of the acceleration sensor104and the angular velocity sensor105is connected to the communication control section101. Then, the detection results of the acceleration sensor104and the angular velocity sensor105are output to the communication control section101repeatedly at appropriate timing.

The communication control section101acquires information regarding an input (specifically, information regarding an operation or the detection result of the sensor) from each of input sections (specifically, the buttons103, the analog stick32, and the sensors104and105). The communication control section101transmits operation data including the acquired information (or information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the acquired information) to the main body apparatus2. It should be noted that the operation data is transmitted repeatedly, once every predetermined time. It should be noted that the interval at which the information regarding an input is transmitted from each of the input sections to the main body apparatus2may or may not be the same.

The above operation data is transmitted to the main body apparatus2, whereby the main body apparatus2can obtain inputs provided to the left controller3. That is, the main body apparatus2can determine operations on the buttons103and the analog stick32based on the operation data. Further, the main body apparatus2can calculate information regarding the motion and/or the orientation of the left controller3based on the operation data (specifically, the detection results of the acceleration sensor104and the angular velocity sensor105).

The left controller3includes a vibrator107for giving notification to the user by a vibration. In the exemplary embodiment, the vibrator107is controlled by a command from the main body apparatus2. That is, if receiving the above command from the main body apparatus2, the communication control section101drives the vibrator107in accordance with the received command. Here, the left controller3includes a codec section106. If receiving the above command, the communication control section101outputs a control signal corresponding to the command to the codec section106. The codec section106generates a driving signal for driving the vibrator107from the control signal from the communication control section101and outputs the driving signal to the vibrator107. Consequently, the vibrator107operates.

More specifically, the vibrator107is a linear vibration motor. Unlike a regular motor that rotationally moves, the linear vibration motor is driven in a predetermined direction in accordance with an input voltage and therefore can be vibrated at an amplitude and a frequency corresponding to the waveform of the input voltage. In the exemplary embodiment, a vibration control signal transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the left controller3may be a digital signal representing the frequency and the amplitude every unit of time. In another exemplary embodiment, the main body apparatus2may transmit information indicating the waveform itself. The transmission of only the amplitude and the frequency, however, enables a reduction in the amount of communication data. Additionally, to further reduce the amount of data, only the differences between the numerical values of the amplitude and the frequency at that time and the previous values may be transmitted, instead of the numerical values. In this case, the codec section106converts a digital signal indicating the values of the amplitude and the frequency acquired from the communication control section101into the waveform of an analog voltage and inputs a voltage in accordance with the resulting waveform, thereby driving the vibrator107. Thus, the main body apparatus2changes the amplitude and the frequency to be transmitted every unit of time and thereby can control the amplitude and the frequency at which the vibrator107is to be vibrated at that time. It should be noted that not only a single amplitude and a single frequency, but also two or more amplitudes and two or more frequencies may be transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the left controller3. In this case, the codec section106combines waveforms indicated by the plurality of received amplitudes and frequencies and thereby can generate the waveform of a voltage for controlling the vibrator107.

The left controller3includes a power supply section108. In the exemplary embodiment, the power supply section108includes a battery and a power control circuit. Although not shown inFIG. 7, the power control circuit is connected to the battery and also connected to components of the left controller3(specifically, components that receive power supplied from the battery).

As shown inFIG. 7, the right controller4includes a communication control section111, which communicates with the main body apparatus2. Further, the right controller4includes a memory112, which is connected to the communication control section111. The communication control section111is connected to components including the terminal64. The communication control section111and the memory112have functions similar to those of the communication control section101and the memory102, respectively, of the left controller3. Thus, the communication control section111can communicate with the main body apparatus2through both wired communication via the terminal64and wireless communication not via the terminal64(specifically, communication compliant with the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard). The communication control section111controls the method for communication performed by the right controller4with the main body apparatus2.

The right controller4includes input sections similar to the input sections of the left controller3. Specifically, the right controller4includes buttons113, the analog stick52, and inertial sensors (an acceleration sensor114and an angular velocity sensor115). These input sections have functions similar to those of the input sections of the left controller3and operate similarly to the input sections of the left controller3.

Further, the right controller4includes a vibrator117and a codec section116. The vibrator117and the codec section116operate similarly to the vibrator107and the codec section106, respectively, of the left controller3. That is, in accordance with a command from the main body apparatus2, the communication control section111causes the vibrator117to operate, using the codec section116.

The right controller4includes a power supply section118. The power supply section118has a function similar to that of the power supply section108of the left controller3and operates similarly to the power supply section108.

As describe above, in the game system1according to the exemplary embodiment, the left controller3and the right controller4are attachable to and detachable from the main body apparatus2. Further, the unified apparatus obtained by attaching the left controller3and the right controller4to the main body apparatus2or the main body apparatus2alone is attached to the cradle and thereby can output an image (and a sound) to the stationary monitor6.

Next, the spherical controller according to an example of the exemplary embodiment is described. In the exemplary embodiment, the spherical controller can be used, instead of the controllers3and4, as an operation device for giving an instruction to the main body apparatus2, and can also be used together with the controllers3and/or4. The details of the spherical controller are described below.

FIG. 8is a perspective view showing an example of the spherical controller.FIG. 8is a top front perspective view of a spherical controller200. As shown inFIG. 8, the spherical controller200includes a spherical controller main body portion201and a strap portion202. For example, the user uses the spherical controller200in the state where the user holds the controller main body portion201while hanging the strap portion202from their arm.

Here, in the following description of the spherical controller200(specifically, the controller main body portion201), an up-down direction, a left-right direction, and a front-back direction are defined as follows (seeFIG. 8). That is, the direction from the center of the spherical controller main body portion201to a joystick212is a front direction (i.e., a negative z-axis direction shown inFIG. 8), and a direction opposite to the front direction is a back direction (i.e., a positive z-axis direction shown inFIG. 8). Further, a direction that matches the direction from the center of the controller main body portion201to the center of an operation surface213when viewed from the front-back direction is an up direction (i.e., a positive y-axis direction shown inFIG. 8), and a direction opposite to the up direction is a down direction (i.e., a negative y-axis direction shown inFIG. 8). Further, the direction from the center of the controller main body portion201to a position at the right end of the controller main body portion201as viewed from the front side is a right direction (i.e., a positive x-axis direction shown inFIG. 8), and a direction opposite to the right direction is a left direction (i.e., a negative x-axis direction shown inFIG. 8). It should be noted that the up-down direction, the left-right direction, and the front-back direction are orthogonal to each other.

FIG. 9is six orthogonal views showing an example of the controller main body portion. InFIG. 9, (a) is a front view, (b) is a right side view, (c) is a left side view, (d) is a plan view, (e) is a bottom view, and (0is a rear view.

As shown inFIG. 9, the controller main body portion201has a spherical shape. Here, the “spherical shape” means a shape of which the external appearance looks roughly like a sphere. The spherical shape may be a true spherical shape, or may be a shape having a true spherical surface with a missing portion and/or a shape having a true spherical surface with a protruding portion. The spherical shape may be so shaped that a part of the surface of the spherical shape is not a spherical surface. Alternatively, the spherical shape may be a shape obtained by slightly distorting a true sphere.

As shown inFIG. 9, the controller main body portion201includes a spherical casing211. In the exemplary embodiment, the controller main body portion201(in other words, the casing211) is of such a size that the user can hold the controller main body portion201with one hand (seeFIG. 10). The diameter of the casing211is set in the range of 4 cm to 10 cm, for example.

In the exemplary embodiment, the casing211is so shaped that a part of a sphere is notched, and a part of the sphere has a hole. To provide an operation section (e.g., the joystick212and a restart button214) on the casing211or attach another component (e.g., the strap portion202) to the casing211, a hole is provided in the casing211.

Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, a front end portion of the casing211is a flat surface (a front end surface) (see (b) to (e) ofFIG. 9). It can be said that the casing211has a shape obtained by cutting a sphere along a flat surface including the front end surface, thereby cutting off a front end portion of the sphere. As shown inFIG. 10, an opening211ais provided on the front end surface of the casing211, and the joystick212, which is an example of a direction input section, is provided, exposed through the opening211a. In the exemplary embodiment, the shape of the opening211ais a circle. In another exemplary embodiment, the shape of the opening211ais any shape. For example, the opening211amay be polygonal (specifically, triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, or the like), elliptical, or star-shaped.

The joystick212includes a shaft portion that can be tilted in any direction by the user. Further, the joystick212is a joystick of a type that allows the operation of pushing down the shaft portion, in addition to the operation of tilting the shaft portion. It should be noted that in another exemplary embodiment, the joystick212may be an input device of another type. It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, the joystick212is used as an example of a direction input section provided in a game controller.

The joystick212is provided in the front end portion of the casing211. As shown inFIG. 9, the joystick212is provided such that a part of the joystick212(specifically, the shaft portion) is exposed through the opening211aof the casing211. Thus, the user can easily perform the operation of tilting the shaft portion. It should be noted that in another exemplary embodiment, the joystick212may be exposed through the opening211aprovided in the flat surface, and may not be provided protruding from the flat surface. The position of the joystick212is the center of the spherical controller main body portion201in the up-down direction and the left-right direction (see (a) ofFIG. 9). As described above, the user can perform a direction input operation for tilting the shaft portion using a game controller of which the outer shape is spherical. That is, according to the exemplary embodiment, it is possible to perform a more detailed operation using a game controller of which the outer shape is spherical.

Further, as shown in (d) ofFIG. 9, the operation surface213is provided in an upper end portion of the casing211. The position of the operation surface213is the center of the spherical controller main body portion201in the left-right direction and the front-back direction (see (d) ofFIG. 9). In the exemplary embodiment, the operation surface213(in other words, the outer circumference of the operation surface213) has a circular shape formed on the spherical surface of the casing211. In another exemplary embodiment, however, the shape of the operation surface213is any shape, and may be a rectangle or a triangle, for example. Although the details will be described later, the operation surface213is configured to be pressed from the above.

In the exemplary embodiment, the operation surface213is formed in a unified manner with the surface of the casing211. The operation surface213is a part of an operation section (also referred to as an “operation button”) that allows a push-down operation. The operation surface213, however, can also be said to be a part of the casing211because the operation surface213is formed in a unified manner with a portion other than the operation surface213of the casing211. It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, the operation surface213can be deformed by being pushed down. An operation section including the operation surface213is input (i.e., an input is provided to the operation section) by pushing down the operation surface213.

With reference toFIG. 10, the positional relationship between the joystick212and the operation surface213is described below.FIG. 10is a diagram showing an example of the state where the user holds the controller main body portion. As shown inFIG. 10, the user can operate the joystick212with their thumb and operate the operation surface213with their index finger in the state where the user holds the controller main body portion201with one hand. It should be noted thatFIG. 10shows as an example a case where the user holds the controller main body portion201with their left hand. However, also in a case where the user holds the controller main body portion201with their right hand, similarly to the case where the user holds the controller main body portion201with their left hand, the user can operate the joystick212with their right thumb and operate the operation surface213with their right index finger.

As described above, in the exemplary embodiment, the operation surface213that allows a push-down operation is provided. Consequently, using a game controller of which the outer shape is spherical, the user can perform both a direction input operation using the joystick and a push-down operation on the operation surface213. Consequently, it is possible to perform various operations using a game controller of which the outer shape is spherical.

Further, the controller main body portion201includes the restart button214. The restart button214is a button for giving an instruction to restart the spherical controller200. As shown in (c) and (f) ofFIG. 9, the restart button214is provided at a position on the left side of the back end of the casing211. The position of the restart button214in the up-down direction is the center of the spherical controller main body portion201. The position of the restart button214in the front-back direction is a position behind the center of the spherical controller main body portion201. It should be noted that in another exemplary embodiment, the position of the restart button214is any position. For example, the restart button214may be provided at any position on the back side of the casing211.

Further, in the exemplary embodiment, a light-emitting section (i.e., a light-emitting section248shown inFIG. 11) is provided inside the casing211, and light is emitted from the opening211aof the casing211to outside the casing211. For example, if the light-emitting section248within the casing211emits light, light having passed through a light-guiding portion (not shown) is emitted from the opening211ato outside the casing211, and a portion around the joystick212appears to shine. As an example, the light-emitting section248includes three light-emitting elements (e.g., LEDs). The light-emitting elements emit beams of light of colors different from each other. Specifically, a first light-emitting element emits red light, a second light-emitting element emits green light, and a third light-emitting element emits blue light. Beams of light from the respective light-emitting elements of the light-emitting section248travel in the light-guiding portion and are emitted from the opening211a. At this time, the beams of light of the respective colors from the respective light-emitting elements are emitted in a mixed manner from the opening211a. Thus, light obtained by mixing the colors is emitted from the opening211a. This enables the spherical controller200to emit beams of light of various colors. It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting section248includes three light-emitting elements. In another exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting section248may include two or more light-emitting elements, or may include only one light-emitting element.

Further, in the exemplary embodiment, a vibration section271is provided within the casing211. The vibration section271is a vibrator that generates a vibration, thereby vibrating the casing211. For example, the vibration section271is a voice coil motor. That is, the vibration section271can generate a vibration in accordance with a signal input to the vibration section271itself and can also generate a sound in accordance with the signal. For example, when a signal having a frequency in the audible range is input to the vibration section271, the vibration section271generates a vibration and also generates a sound (i.e., an audible sound). For example, when a sound signal indicating the voice (or the cry) of a character that appears in a game is input to the vibration section271, the vibration section271outputs the voice (or the cry) of the character. Further, when a signal having a frequency outside the audible range is input to the vibration section271, the vibration section271generates a vibration. It should be noted that a signal to be input to the vibration section271can be said to be a signal indicating the waveform of a vibration that should be performed by the vibration section271, or can also be said to be a sound signal indicating the waveform of a sound that should be output from the vibration section271. A signal to be input to the vibration section271may be a vibration signal intended to cause the vibration section271to perform a vibration having a desired waveform, or may be a sound signal intended to cause the vibration section271to output a desired sound, or may be a signal intended to both cause the vibration section271to output a desired sound and cause the vibration section271to perform a vibration having a desired waveform. In the exemplary embodiment, sound data (catch target reproduction data and common reproduction data) for causing the vibration section271to output a sound is stored within the casing211. The sound data, however, includes at least a sound signal having a frequency in the audible range for causing the vibration section271to output a desired sound, and may include a vibration signal having a frequency outside the audible range for causing the vibration section271to perform a vibration having a desired waveform.

As described above, in the exemplary embodiment, the vibration section271can output a vibration and a sound. Thus, it is possible to output a vibration and a sound from the spherical controller200and also simplify the internal configuration of the controller main body portion201. If such effects are not desired, a speaker (a sound output section) for outputting a sound and a vibrator (a vibration output section) for performing a vibration may be provided separately from each other in the spherical controller200. It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, the vibration section271is used as an example of a sound output section. The sound output section may double as a vibration section, or the sound output section and the vibration section may be provided separately.

Further, in the exemplary embodiment, the spherical controller200includes an inertial sensor247(e.g., an acceleration sensor and/or an angular velocity sensor) provided near the center of the casing211. Based on this, the inertial sensor247can detect accelerations in three axial directions, namely the up-down direction, the left-right direction, and the front-back direction under equal conditions and/or angular velocities about the three axial directions under equal conditions. This can improve the acceleration detection accuracy and/or the angular velocity detection accuracy of the inertial sensor247.

FIG. 11is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical connection relationship of the spherical controller200. As shown inFIG. 11, the spherical controller200includes a control section321and a memory324. The control section321includes a processor. In the exemplary embodiment, the control section321controls a communication process with the main body apparatus2, controls a vibration and a sound to be output from the vibration section271, controls light to be emitted from the light-emitting section248, or controls the supply of power to electrical components shown inFIG. 11. The memory324is composed of a flash memory or the like, and the control section321executes firmware stored in the memory324, thereby executing various processes. Further, in the memory324, sound data for outputting a sound from the vibration section271(a voice coil motor) and light emission data for emitting beams of light of various colors from the light-emitting section248may be stored. It should be noted that in the memory324, data used in a control operation may be stored, or data used in an application (e.g., a game application) using the spherical controller200that is executed by the main body apparatus2may be stored.

The control section321is electrically connected to input means included in the spherical controller200. In the exemplary embodiment, the spherical controller200includes as the input means the joystick212, a sensing circuit322, the inertial sensor247, and a button sensing section258. The sensing circuit322is a sensing circuit that senses that an operation on the operation surface213is performed. In the button sensing section258, a contact that senses an operation on the restart button214, and a sensing circuit that senses that the restart button214comes into contact with the contact are provided. The control section321acquires, from the input means, information regarding (in other words, data) an operation performed on the input means.

The control section321is electrically connected to a communication section323. The communication section323includes an antenna and wirelessly communicates with the main body apparatus2. That is, the control section321transmits information (in other words, data) to the main body apparatus2using the communication section323(in other words, via the communication section323) and receives information (in other words, data) from the main body apparatus2using the communication section323. For example, the control section321transmits information acquired from the joystick212, the sensing circuit322, and the inertial sensor247to the main body apparatus2via the communication section323. It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, the communication section323(and/or the control section321) functions as a transmission section that transmits information regarding an operation on the joystick212to the main body apparatus2. Further, the communication section323(and/or the control section321) functions as a transmission section that transmits information regarding an operation on the operation surface213to the main body apparatus2. Further, the communication section323(and/or the control section321) functions as a transmission section that transmits, to the main body apparatus2, information output from the inertial sensor247. In the exemplary embodiment, the communication section323performs communication compliant with the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard with the main body apparatus2. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, as an example of reception means of a game controller, the communication section323(and/or the control section321) is used. The communication section323(and/or the control section321) receives, from the main body apparatus2, sound/vibration data indicating a waveform for causing the vibration section271to vibrate or output a sound, and the like.

It should be noted that in another exemplary embodiment, the communication section323may perform wired communication, instead of wireless communication, with the main body apparatus2. Further, the communication section323may have both the function of wirelessly communicating with the main body apparatus2and the function of performing wired communication with the main body apparatus2.

The control section321is electrically connected to output means included in the spherical controller200. In the exemplary embodiment, the spherical controller200includes the vibration section271and the light-emitting section248as the output means. The control section321controls the operation of the output means. For example, the control section321may reference information acquired from the input means, thereby controlling the operation of the output means in accordance with an operation on the input means. For example, in accordance with the fact that the operation surface213is pressed, the control section321may cause the vibration section271to vibrate or cause the light-emitting section248to emit light. Further, based on information received from the main body apparatus2via the communication section323, the control section321may control the operation of the output means. That is, in accordance with a control command from the main body apparatus2, the control section321may cause the vibration section271to vibrate or cause the light-emitting section248to emit light. Further, the main body apparatus2may transmit to the spherical controller200a signal indicating a waveform for causing the vibration section271to vibrate or output a sound, and the control section321may cause the vibration section271to vibrate or output a sound in accordance with the waveform. That is, the antenna of the communication section323may receive from outside (i.e., the main body apparatus2) a signal for causing the vibration section271to vibrate, and the vibration section271may vibrate based on the signal received by the antenna. It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, since the vibration section271is a voice coil motor capable of outputting a vibration and a sound, the control section321can output a vibration and a sound from the vibration section271in accordance with the above waveform.

The control section321is electrically connected to a rechargeable battery244provided in the spherical controller200. The control section321controls the supply of power from the rechargeable battery244to each piece of the input means, each piece of the output means, and the communication section. It should be noted that the rechargeable battery244may be directly connected to each piece of the input means, each piece of the output means, and the communication section. In the exemplary embodiment, based on information acquired from the button sensing section258(i.e., information indicating whether or not the restart button214is pressed), the control section321controls the above supply of power. Specifically, when the restart button214is pressed (in other words, while the restart button214is pressed), the control section321stops the supply of power from the rechargeable battery244to each piece of the input means, each piece of the output means, and the communication section. Further, when the restart button214is not pressed (in other words, while the restart button214is not pressed), the control section321supplies power from the rechargeable battery244to each piece of the input means, each piece of the output means, and the communication section. As described above, in the exemplary embodiment, the restart button214is a button for giving an instruction to restart (in other words, reset) the spherical controller200. The restart button214can also be said to be a button for giving an instruction to control the on state and the off state of the power supply of the spherical controller200.

Further, the rechargeable battery244is electrically connected to a charging terminal249provided on the outer peripheral surface of the spherical controller200. The charging terminal249is a terminal for connecting to a charging device (e.g., an AC adapter or the like) (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment, the charging terminal249is a USB connector (more specifically, a female connector). In the exemplary embodiment, when a charging device to which mains electricity is supplied is electrically connected to the charging terminal249, power is supplied to the rechargeable battery244via the charging terminal249, thereby charging the rechargeable battery244.

A description is given below using a game system where an operation is performed using the spherical controller200in a use form in which an image (and a sound) is output to the stationary monitor6by attaching the main body apparatus2alone to the cradle in the state where the left controller3and the right controller4are detached from the main body apparatus2.

As described above, in the exemplary embodiment, the game system1can also be used in the state where the left controller3and the right controller4are detached from the main body apparatus2(referred to as a “separate state”). As a form in a case where an operation is performed on an application (e.g., a game application) using the game system1in the separate state, a form is possible in which one or more users each use the left controller3and/or the right controller4, and a form is also possible in which one or more users each use one or more spherical controllers200. Further, when a plurality of users perform operations using the same application, play is also possible in which a user performing an operation using the left controller3and/or the right controller4and a user performing an operation using the spherical controller200.

With reference toFIGS. 12 to 16, a description is given of a game where the game system1is used. It should be noted thatFIGS. 12 to 16are diagrams showing examples of the state where a single user performs a game where the single user uses the game system1by operating the spherical controller200.

For example, as shown inFIGS. 12 to 16, the user can view an image displayed on the stationary monitor6while performing an operation by holding the spherical controller200with one hand. Then, in this exemplary game, the user can perform a tilt operation or a push-in operation on the joystick212with their thumb and perform a push-down operation on the operation surface213with their index finger in the state where the user holds the controller main body portion201of the spherical controller200with one hand. That is, the user can perform both a direction input operation and a push-in operation using the joystick, and a push-down operation on the operation surface213, using a game controller of which the outer shape is spherical. Further, in the state where the spherical controller200is held with one hand, the spherical controller200is moved in up, down, left, right, front, and back directions, rotated, or swung, whereby game play is performed in accordance with the motion or the orientation of the spherical controller200. Then, in the above game play, the inertial sensor247of the spherical controller200can detect accelerations in the xyz-axis directions and/or angular velocities about the xyz-axis directions as operation inputs.

Further, when game play is performed by the user holding the spherical controller200, a sound is output and a vibration is imparted from the spherical controller200in accordance with the situation of the game. As described above, the spherical controller200includes the vibration section271(a voice coil motor) capable of outputting a sound. The processor81of the main body apparatus2transmits sound data and/or vibration data to the spherical controller200in accordance with the situation of the game that is being executed by the processor81, and thereby can output a sound and a vibration from the vibration section271at an amplitude and a frequency corresponding to the sound data and/or the vibration data.

FIGS. 12 to 16show examples of game images displayed in a game played by operating the spherical controller200. In this exemplary game, a game is performed where the actions of a player character PC and a ball object B are controlled by operating the spherical controller200, and characters placed in a virtual space are caught. Then, an image of the virtual space indicating the game situation is displayed on the stationary monitor6.

For example, as shown inFIG. 12, in this exemplary game, by performing a tilt operation on the joystick212of the spherical controller200, it is possible to move the player character PC in the virtual space and search for a character placed in the virtual space. Then, when the player character PC encounters a character placed in the virtual space, the character is set as a catch target character HC, and a catch game where the player character PC catches the catch target character HC is started. It should be noted that a plurality of types of characters that the player character PC can encounter are set, and one of the plurality of types of characters is selected as the catch target character HC. It should be noted that the catch target character HC, the player character PC, and the like that appear in this game can also be said to be virtual objects placed in the virtual space. Further, the ball object B and the like that appear in this game function as game characters that appear in the virtual space. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, as an example of a game character as a target to be caught, the catch target character HC is used, and as an example of an object that resembles the external appearance of the game controller, the ball object B is used.

In this exemplary game, when the catch target character HC to be caught by the player character PC is set, the game shifts to a catch game mode. In the catch game mode, a game image is displayed in which an image of the virtual space where the catch target character HC is placed near the center of the virtual space is displayed on the stationary monitor6, and the ball object B flies off toward the catch target character HC by performing the operation of throwing the spherical controller200.

As shown inFIG. 13, in this exemplary game, as a preparation operation for performing the operation of throwing the spherical controller200, the operation of holding up the spherical controller200is performed. For example, in this exemplary game, the hold-up operation is performed by performing the operation of pushing in the joystick212of the spherical controller200. When the hold-up operation is performed, a catch timing image TM is displayed in the periphery of the catch target character HC displayed near the center. Here, the catch timing image TM is an image indicating to the user an appropriate catch operation timing for the catch target character HC. As an example, the size of a ring is sequentially changed, and at the timing when the size becomes a predetermined size (e.g., a minimum size), it is indicated that it is highly likely that the catch of the catch target character HC is successful by performing the operation of throwing the spherical controller200.

Further, in this exemplary game, when the operation of holding up the spherical controller200is performed, then in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the sound of holding up the ball (e.g., the sound of gripping the ball, “creak”) is emitted from the spherical controller200. It should be noted that sound data indicating the sound of holding up the ball is written in advance in storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200, and in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the sound data is reproduced by the vibration section271.

Further, in this exemplary game, the operation of holding up the spherical controller200is performed, whereby the ball object B representing the external appearance of the spherical controller200is displayed in the virtual space. In accordance with the fact that the operation of holding up the spherical controller200is performed, the ball object B is displayed, initially placed at a position determined in advance by an orientation determined in advance. Then, to correspond to changes in the position and/or the orientation of the spherical controller200in real space after the operation of holding up the spherical controller200is performed, the ball object B is displayed by changing the position and/or the orientation of the ball object B in the virtual space. It should be noted that the motion of the displayed ball object B does not need to completely match the position and/or the orientation of the spherical controller200in real space. For example, the motion of the displayed ball object B may be at a level that the motion relatively resembles the position and/or the orientation of the spherical controller200in the motion before and after the position and/or the orientation of the spherical controller200in real space change.

As shown inFIG. 14, in this exemplary game, the controller main body portion201of the spherical controller200is moved by swinging the controller main body portion201(e.g., swinging down the controller main body portion201from top to bottom), whereby the above throw operation is performed. As an example, when the magnitudes of accelerations detected by the inertial sensor247of the spherical controller200exceed a predetermined threshold, it is determined that the operation of throwing the spherical controller200is performed. When the throw operation is performed, the catch timing image TM is erased, and the state where the ball object B flies off toward the catch target character HC is displayed. It should be noted that the trajectory of the ball object B moving in the virtual space may be a trajectory determined in advance from the position of the ball object B displayed at the time when the throw operation is performed to the placement position of the catch target character HC, or the trajectory may change in accordance with the content of the throw operation (e.g., the magnitudes of accelerations generated in the spherical controller200).

Further, in this exemplary game, in accordance with the fact that the operation of throwing the spherical controller200is performed, the main body apparatus2determines the success or failure of the catch of the catch target character HC. For example, based on the timing when the operation of throwing the spherical controller200is performed (e.g., the size of the catch timing image TM at the time when the throw operation is performed), the content of the throw operation (e.g., the magnitudes of accelerations generated in the spherical controller200), the level of difficulty of the catch of the catch target character HC, the empirical value of the player character PC, the number of catch tries, and the like, the main body apparatus2determines the success or failure of the catch of the catch target character HC.

Further, in this exemplary game, when the operation of throwing the spherical controller200is performed, then in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the sound of the ball flying off (e.g., the sound of the ball flying off, “whiz”) is emitted from the spherical controller200. It should be noted that sound data indicating the sound of the ball flying off is written in advance in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200, and in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the sound data is reproduced by the vibration section271.

Further, in this exemplary game, when the operation of throwing the spherical controller200is performed, the spherical controller200vibrates in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2. It should be noted that vibration data for causing the spherical controller200to vibrate is written in advance in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200with the sound data indicating the sound of the ball flying off, and in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the vibration data is reproduced by the vibration section271. Here, the sound data written in the storage means in the spherical controller200together with the vibration data includes a sound signal having a frequency in the audible range for causing the vibration section271to output the sound of the ball flying off, and also includes a vibration signal having a frequency outside the audible range for causing the vibration section271to perform a vibration corresponding to the throw operation. A sound/vibration signal including both the sound signal and the vibration signal is input to the vibration section271, whereby the above sound and the above vibration are simultaneously emitted from the vibration section271.

It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, regarding a signal (a waveform) to be reproduced by the vibration section271, even a signal in the purpose of outputting a sound having a frequency in the audible range for outputting a sound, the vibration section271can output a sound in accordance with the signal, thereby imparting a weak vibration to the controller main body portion201of the spherical controller200. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, regarding a signal (a waveform) to be reproduced by the vibration section271, even a signal in the purpose of outputting a vibration having a frequency outside the audible range for performing a vibration, the vibration section271can vibrate in accordance with the signal, whereby a small sound may be emitted from the spherical controller200. That is, even when a signal including one of the above sound signal and the above vibration signal is input to the vibration section271, a sound and a vibration can be simultaneously emitted from the vibration section271.

As shown inFIG. 15, in this exemplary game, after the state where the ball object B flies off toward the catch target character HC is displayed on the stationary monitor6, a game image I indicating the state where the ball object B hits the catch target character HC is displayed. For example, in the example ofFIG. 15, “Nice!” indicating that the ball object B hits the catch target character HC in a favorable state is displayed as a game image I. It should be noted that the state where the ball object B hits the catch target character HC may be set by the main body apparatus2based on the success or failure of the catch of the catch target character HC, or may be set by the main body apparatus2based on the content of the operation of throwing the spherical controller200. Further, the state where the ball object B does not hit the catch target character HC may be displayed. For example, in accordance with the strength of the operation of throwing the spherical controller200(e.g., the relative magnitudes of accelerations generated in the spherical controller200), an image may be displayed in which the ball object B stops moving on the near side of the catch target character HC, or the ball object B flies off beyond the catch target character HC.

Further, in this exemplary game, when the ball object B hits the catch target character HC, then in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the sound of the ball hitting the catch target character HC (e.g., the sound of the ball hitting a character, “crash!”) is emitted from the spherical controller200. It should be noted that sound data indicating the sound of the ball hitting the character is also written in advance in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200, and in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the sound data is reproduced by the vibration section271.

Further, in this exemplary game, various representations may be performed during the period until the user is notified of the success or failure of the catch of the catch target character HC. For example, in this exemplary game, a representation that after the ball object B hits the catch target character HC, the catch target character HC enters the ball object B, a representation that after the catch target character HC enters the ball object B, the ball object B closes, a representation that the ball object B that the catch target character HC has entered falls to the ground in the virtual space, a representation that the ball object B that the catch target character HC has entered intermittently shakes multiple times on the ground in the virtual space, and the like may be performed. Further, in this exemplary game, when each of the above representations is performed, then in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, a sound corresponding to the representation may be emitted from the spherical controller200. It should be noted that sound data indicating the sounds corresponding to these representations is also written in advance in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200, and in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the sound data is reproduced by the vibration section271. Further, in this exemplary game, when each of the above representations is performed, the state where a light-emitting part C as a part of the ball object B lights up or blinks in a predetermined color may be displayed on the stationary monitor6, and in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, light corresponding to the representation may also be output from the spherical controller200. It should be noted that light emission color data indicating the beams of light corresponding to these representations is written in advance in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200, and in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the light-emitting section248emits light in a color indicated by the light emission color data.

It should be noted that in the representation that the ball object B that the catch target character HC has entered intermittently shakes multiple times on the ground in the virtual space, a reproduction instruction is intermittently given multiple times by the main body apparatus2, and in accordance with the reproduction instruction, the sound of the ball shaking is emitted from the spherical controller200, and the spherical controller200also vibrates. It should be noted that sound data indicating the sound of the ball shaking and the vibration of the ball shaking is also written in advance in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200, and in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the sound data is reproduced by the vibration section271. Here, the sound data written in the storage means in the spherical controller200includes a sound signal having a frequency in the audible range for causing the vibration section271to output the sound of the ball shaking, and also includes a vibration signal having a frequency outside the audible range for causing the vibration section271to perform a vibration for shaking. The sound signal and the vibration signal are simultaneously input to the vibration section271, whereby the above sound and the above vibration are simultaneously emitted from the vibration section271.

As shown inFIG. 16, in this exemplary game, through the above representations, an image notifying the user of the success or failure of the catch of the catch target character HC is displayed on the stationary monitor6. As a first stage where the user is notified of the success of the catch of the catch target character HC, a game image indicating that the catch is successful, and the state where the light-emitting part C as a part of the ball object B lights up or blinks in a color indicating that the catch is successful (e.g., green) are displayed on the stationary monitor6. Further, at the first stage where the user is notified of the success of the catch of the catch target character HC, then in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, a sound indicating that the catch is successful is emitted from the spherical controller200, and the spherical controller200also emits light in a color indicating that the catch is successful (e.g., green). As an example, at the first stage where the user is notified of the success of the catch of the catch target character HC, then in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, a sound indicating that the catch is successful (e.g., a sound indicating that the catch is successful, “click!”) is output from the vibration section271of the spherical controller200. Further, at the first stage where the user is notified of the success of the catch of the catch target character HC, then in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the light-emitting section248lights up or blinks in a color indicating that the catch is successful (e.g., green), whereby light in this color is emitted from the opening211aof the spherical controller200. It should be noted that sound data indicating the sound to be output at the first stage where the user is notified of the success of the catch of the catch target character HC, and light emission color data indicating the light to be emitted at the first stage are also written in advance in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200. In accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the sound data is reproduced by the vibration section271, and in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the light-emitting section248emits light in a color indicated by the light emission color data.

At a second stage where the user is notified of the success of the catch of the catch target character HC and which is after a predetermined time elapses from the first stage, the state where the light-emitting part C of the ball object B lights up or blinks in a color corresponding to the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful is displayed on the stationary monitor6. For example, the color corresponding to the catch target character HC may be a color related to the base color of the catch target character HC. For example, in the case of a character of which the whole body has a yellow base color, the color corresponding to the catch target character HC may be yellow. Further, at the second stage where the user is notified of the success of the catch of the catch target character HC, then in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the cry of the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful is emitted from the spherical controller200, and the spherical controller200also emits light in the color corresponding to the caught catch target character HC. As an example, at the second stage where the user is notified of the success of the catch of the catch target character HC, then in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the cry of the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful (e.g., the cry of the catch target character HC, “gar”) is output from the vibration section271of the spherical controller200. Further, at the second stage where the user is notified of the success of the catch of the catch target character HC, then in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the light-emitting section248lights up or blinks in the color corresponding to the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful, whereby light in this color is emitted from the opening211aof the spherical controller200. It should be noted that as will be described later as catch target reproduction data, sound data indicating the sound to be output at the second stage where the user is notified of the success of the catch of the catch target character HC and light emission color data indicating the light to be emitted at the second stage are transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the spherical controller200and written in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200when the catch target character HC is set. In accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the sound data is reproduced by the vibration section271, and in accordance with a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2, the light-emitting section248emits light in a color indicated by the light emission color data.

It should be noted that the sound corresponding to the catch target character HC to be output from the spherical controller200is typically the cry of the catch target character HC. Here, the cry of the catch target character HC may be substantially the same as the cry emitted from the catch target character HC in a game where the catch target character HC appears. Specifically, when an image of the virtual space indicating the game situation where the catch target character HC appears is displayed on the stationary monitor6, substantially the same cry as the cry of the catch target character HC output from a speaker of the stationary monitor6in accordance with the game situation is output from the vibration section271of the spherical controller200.

Further, in the exemplary embodiment, regarding the light emission of the spherical controller200corresponding to the caught catch target character HC, the spherical controller200lights up or blinks in a single color corresponding to a base color. In another exemplary embodiment, regarding the light emission of the spherical controller200corresponding to the caught catch target character HC, the spherical controller200may light up or blink in light obtained by combining a plurality of colors. Further, in another exemplary embodiment, the light emission of the spherical controller200corresponding to the caught catch target character HC may be a light emission pattern that sequentially changes to a plurality of different colors. As an example, when the caught catch target character HC has a plurality of base colors, the spherical controller200may light up or blink in a hue obtained by combining the plurality of base colors, or may emit light in a light emission pattern that sequentially changes to the plurality of base colors. It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, as an example of a light-emitting section controlled by light emission control means, the light-emitting section248is used. Alternatively, the light emission control means may cause the light-emitting section (the light-emitting section248) to emit light in a light emission pattern corresponding to in a caught game character (the catch target character HC) based on second data (a reproduction instruction) from the game apparatus (the main body apparatus2). Further, the light emission pattern controlled by the light emission control means may be a light emission pattern based on monochromatic light, or may be a light emission pattern that sequentially changes to beams of light of different colors.

Next, with reference toFIG. 17, a description is given of communication data transmitted and received between the main body apparatus2and the spherical controller200in the above game. It should be noted thatFIG. 17is a diagram showing an example of the communication data transmitted and received between the main body apparatus2and the spherical controller200when the game where the game system1is used is performed.

InFIG. 17, common reproduction data is written in advance in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200. Here, the common reproduction data is information indicating a sound and/or light to be commonly output regardless of the type of the catch target character HC, and is data for outputting a sound and light used in the representations other than those at the second stage where the user is notified of the success of the catch of the catch target character HC. Specifically, the common reproduction data includes sound/vibration data indicating a sound to be output from the vibration section271in the above representations, and light emission color data indicating a color in which the light-emitting section248is caused to emit light. A sound and a light emission color to be output in response to a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2(e.g., reproduction instruction data ID1to ID10indicating a reproduction code) is specified. It should be noted that the timing when the common reproduction data is written in advance may be any time during the period before the catch target character HC is set. The common reproduction data may be written to the above storage means at the time when the spherical controller200is manufactured, or may be written to the above storage means at the time when an application in the spherical controller200is updated, or may be written to the above storage means at the time when the game application is installed on the main body apparatus2.

When the user searches for a character using the player character PC, and a catch target character HC as a catch target is selected from among a plurality of types of characters and set, sound data and light emission color data corresponding to the type of the catch target character HC is transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the spherical controller200as catch target reproduction data. Then, the catch target reproduction data is received by the spherical controller200and written to a rewriting area in the memory324. It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, as an example of second data corresponding to a game character as a target to be caught, catch target reproduction data is used.

The catch target reproduction data to be transmitted to the spherical controller200is generated in the main body apparatus2. Alternatively, the catch target reproduction data may be generated by being extracted from a data group stored in advance in the main body apparatus2. Yet alternatively, every time a catch target character HC as a catch target is selected, the catch target reproduction data may be newly generated using a parameter related to the catch target character HC.

Yet alternatively, depending on the type of the catch target character HC as a catch target, the catch target reproduction data may be written in advance in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200. For example, it is possible that regarding a catch target character HC frequently set as a catch target, the catch target reproduction data is written in advance in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200, similarly to the common reproduction data. In this case, data transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the spherical controller200when a catch target character HC as a catch target is selected from among a plurality of types of characters and set may be identification information for identifying the catch target character HC, instead of the catch target reproduction data. When the spherical controller200receives the identification information for identifying the catch target character HC from the main body apparatus2, the spherical controller200extracts data (sound data and light emission color data) corresponding to the identification information from catch target reproduction data written in advance in the storage means and sets the data.

Next, when the user performs a hold-up operation using the spherical controller200(seeFIG. 13), operation data corresponding to the hold-up operation is transmitted from the spherical controller200to the main body apparatus2. In accordance with the reception of the operation data corresponding to the hold-up operation, the main body apparatus2displays on the stationary monitor6a game image corresponding to the operation and also transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID1for causing the spherical controller200to output the sound of holding up the ball. Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID1, the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID1from the common reproduction data and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (the sound of holding up the ball). Here, the reproduction instruction data to be transmitted from the main body apparatus2may indicate the codes of a sound to be output from the spherical controller200and a light emission color in which light is to be emitted. In this case, sound data and light emission color data corresponding to the codes are managed in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) in the spherical controller200. It should be noted that catch target reproduction data written in the rewriting area in the memory324is also managed corresponding to a code indicated by the reproduction instruction data transmitted from the main body apparatus2.

Next, when the user performs a throw operation using the spherical controller200(seeFIG. 14), operation data corresponding to the throw operation is transmitted from the spherical controller200to the main body apparatus2. In accordance with the reception of the operation data corresponding to the throw operation, the main body apparatus2displays on the stationary monitor6a game image corresponding to the operation and also transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID2for causing the spherical controller200to output the sound of the ball flying off and a vibration. Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID2, the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID2from the common reproduction data and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (the sound of the ball flying off) and a vibration (a vibration corresponding to the throw operation). It should be noted that the sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID2includes a sound signal having a frequency in the audible range for causing the vibration section271to output the sound of the ball flying off, and also includes a vibration signal having a frequency outside the audible range for causing the vibration section271to perform a vibration corresponding to the throw operation. The sound signal and the vibration signal are simultaneously input to the vibration section271, whereby the above sound and the above vibration are simultaneously emitted from the vibration section271. It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, as an example of first data to be transmitted from a game controller, operation data corresponding to a throw operation is used.

On the other hand, based on the content of the throw operation performed using the spherical controller200by the user, the main body apparatus2performs the process of determining the success or failure of the catch of the set catch target character HC. Then, after transmitting the reproduction instruction data ID2, the main body apparatus2displays on the stationary monitor6a game image in which the ball object B hits the catch target character HC in the virtual space, and also transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID3for causing the spherical controller200to output the sound of the ball coming into contact with the catch target character HC. Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID3, the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID3from the common reproduction data and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (the sound of the contact of the ball).

Next, after transmitting the reproduction instruction data ID3, the main body apparatus2displays on the stationary monitor6a game image in which the catch target character HC is stored in the ball object B in the virtual space, and also transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID4for causing the spherical controller200to output the sound of storing the catch target character HC in the ball. Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID4, the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID4from the common reproduction data and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (the sound of storing the catch target character HC in the ball).

Next, after transmitting the reproduction instruction data ID4, the main body apparatus2displays on the stationary monitor6a game image in which the ball object B is locked in the virtual space, and also transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID5for causing the spherical controller200to output the sound of locking the ball. Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID5, the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID5from the common reproduction data and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (the sound of locking the ball).

Next, after transmitting the reproduction instruction data ID5, the main body apparatus2displays on the stationary monitor6a game image in which the ball object B falls to the ground in the virtual space, and also transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID6for causing the spherical controller200to output the sound of the ball falling. Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID6, the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID6from the common reproduction data and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (the sound of the ball falling).

Next, after transmitting the reproduction instruction data ID6, the main body apparatus2displays on the stationary monitor6a game image in which the light-emitting part C lights up or blinks in a predetermined color (e.g., yellow) while the ball object B shakes multiple times on the ground in the virtual space, also causes the spherical controller200to output the sound of the ball shaking multiple times and a vibration, and transmits the reproduction instruction data ID7for causing the spherical controller200to emit light in the predetermined color to the spherical controller200multiple times in accordance with the timing when the ball object B shakes. Then, every time the spherical controller200receives the reproduction instruction data ID7, the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID7from the common reproduction data and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (the sound of the ball shaking) and a vibration (the vibration of the ball shaking). Further, every time the spherical controller200receives the reproduction instruction data ID7, the spherical controller200extracts light emission color data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID7from the common reproduction data and causes the light-emitting section248to emit light in a color corresponding to the light emission color data (e.g., yellow). It should be noted that the sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID7includes a sound signal having a frequency in the audible range for causing the vibration section271to output the sound of the ball shaking, and also includes a vibration signal having a frequency outside the audible range for causing the vibration section271to perform a shaking vibration. The sound signal and the vibration signal are simultaneously input to the vibration section271, whereby the above sound and the above vibration are simultaneously emitted from the vibration section271.

Next, after transmitting the reproduction instruction data ID7multiple times, the main body apparatus2displays on the stationary monitor6a game image indicating that the catch by the ball object B is successful in the virtual space, also causes the spherical controller200to output a sound indicating that the catch is successful, and transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID8for causing the spherical controller200to emit light in a color indicating that the catch is successful (e.g., green). Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID8, the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID8from the common reproduction data and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (a catch success sound). Further, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID8, the spherical controller200extracts light emission color data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID8from the common reproduction data and causes the light-emitting section248to emit light in a color corresponding to the light emission color data (e.g., green). It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, as an example of data indicating the result of the determination of the success or failure of the catch of a game character, the reproduction instruction data ID8is used.

Next, after transmitting the reproduction instruction data ID8, the main body apparatus2displays on the stationary monitor6a game image indicating the state where the catch target character HC is caught in the ball object B in the virtual space, also causes the spherical controller200to output a sound corresponding to the caught catch target character HC (e.g., the cry), and transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID10for causing the spherical controller200to emit light in a color corresponding to the caught catch target character HC (e.g., the base color of the caught catch target character HC). Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID10, the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID10from the catch target reproduction data and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (the cry of the catch target character HC). Further, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID10, the spherical controller200extracts light emission color data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID10from the catch target reproduction data and causes the light-emitting section248to emit light in a color corresponding to the light emission color data (e.g., the base color of the catch target character HC). It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, as an example of third data for outputting a sound corresponding to a game character and fourth data for causing a light-emitting section to emit light in a color corresponding to the game character, the reproduction instruction data ID10is used.

Here, in the catch target reproduction data stored in the spherical controller200, a set of sound data and light emission color data corresponding to the set type of the catch target character HC is stored. In this case, as an example, the reproduction instruction data ID10may be a command to reproduce the set of sound data and light emission color data. Such a command to reproduce the set of sound data and light emission color data is a single piece of data that can be said to be third data for outputting a sound corresponding to a game character and also fourth data for causing a light-emitting section to emit light in a color corresponding to the game character (i.e., the third data and the fourth data are collected treated as a single piece of data). Further, as another example, in the reproduction instruction data ID10, a command to reproduce the sound data and a command to reproduce the light emission color data may be separately configured. When the command to reproduce the sound data and the command to reproduce the light emission color data are thus separately configured, third data for outputting a sound corresponding to a game character and fourth data for causing a light-emitting section to emit light in a color corresponding to the game character can be said to be different pieces of data.

It should be noted that when the catch by the ball object B is failed, the main body apparatus2transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID9instead of the reproduction instruction data ID8and does not transmit the reproduction instruction data ID10, either. That is, when the catch by the ball object B is failed, and after the main body apparatus2transmits the reproduction instruction data ID7multiple times, the main body apparatus2displays on the stationary monitor6a game image indicating that the catch by the ball object B is failed in the virtual space, also causes the spherical controller200to output a sound indicating that the catch is failed, and transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID9for causing the spherical controller200to emit light in a color indicating that the catch is failed (e.g., red). Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID9, the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID9from the common reproduction data and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (a catch failure sound). Further, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID9, the spherical controller200extracts light emission color data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID9from the common reproduction data and causes the light-emitting section248to emit light in a color corresponding to the light emission color data (e.g., red). It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment, as another example of the data indicating the result of the determination of the success or failure of the catch of the game character, the reproduction instruction data ID9is used.

Further, when the catch by the ball object B is failed, at least one of the representations in which the reproduction instruction data ID3to ID7is transmitted may not be performed. As an example, when the catch by the ball object B is failed, and after the representation that the ball object B flies off, in which reproduction instruction data ID2is transmitted, is performed, a game image indicating that the catch by the ball object B is failed may be displayed on the stationary monitor6by displaying a game image in which the ball object B does not hit the catch target character HC, and the reproduction instruction data ID9may also be transmitted to the spherical controller200.

Further, in another exemplary embodiment, even when the catch by the ball object B is successful, and after the representation that the ball object B flies off, in which the reproduction instruction data ID2is transmitted, is performed, a representation using a game image in which the ball object B does not hit the catch target character HC may be performed. In this case, as an example, after the representation that the ball object B flies off, in which the reproduction instruction data ID2is transmitted, is performed, a representation that the ball object B falls to the ground, in which the reproduction instruction data ID6is transmitted, may be performed, and a representation that the catch is successful may be continued.

Further, in the exemplary embodiment, in accordance with the fact that the catch target character HC as the catch target is selected and set, the type of catch target reproduction data corresponding to the catch target character HC is transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the spherical controller200. Consequently, it is possible to prevent the reception of the catch target reproduction data to be used when the catch is successful from being delayed. Alternatively, as another exemplary embodiment, at a timing included in the period from when the catch target character HC as the catch target is selected and set to the time when it is determined that the catch is successful, the type of catch target reproduction data corresponding to the catch target character HC may be transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the spherical controller200. As an example, simultaneously with the reproduction instruction data ID8to be transmitted to the spherical controller200, the catch target reproduction data (sound data and light emission color data) corresponding to the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful may be transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the spherical controller200. In this case, the catch target reproduction data corresponding to the catch target character HC is transmitted at the timing when it is determined that the catch is successful. Yet alternatively, as another exemplary embodiment, at a timing after it is determined that the catch of the catch target character HC as the catch target is successful, the catch target reproduction data corresponding to the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful may be transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the spherical controller200. As an example, during the period from when the reproduction instruction data ID8is transmitted to the spherical controller200to when the reproduction instruction data ID10is transmitted, or simultaneously with the reproduction instruction data ID10transmitted to the spherical controller200, the catch target reproduction data (sound data and light emission color data) corresponding to the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful may be transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the spherical controller200. Further, the sound data and the light emission color data corresponding to the type of the catch target character HC may be transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the spherical controller200at different timings, or either one of the sound data and the light emission color data may be written in advance in the storage means (e.g., the memory324) of the spherical controller200.

As described above, in the game system1where the spherical controller200according to the exemplary embodiment is used, by operating the spherical controller200, a sound corresponding to the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful is output from the spherical controller200. Thus, it is possible to increase a realistic feeling in a game where the catch target character HC is caught.

Further, the catch target reproduction data to be written to the spherical controller200according to the exemplary embodiment during the catch game may be erased at the time when the catch game ends, or may be rewritten as new catch target reproduction data at the time when a new catch target is set. Consequently, even when many catch target candidates are set, catch target reproduction data of one of the catch target candidates is merely written to the spherical controller200, whereby it is possible to achieve the above representations. Thus, even when the storage capacity of the spherical controller200is small, it is possible to achieve the above representations. On the other hand, the common reproduction data written in advance in the spherical controller200according to the exemplary embodiment is data to be commonly used, regardless of the type of the catch target. Thus, the common reproduction data continues to be maintained in the spherical controller200even when the catch game ends. Consequently, it is possible to make the amount of data to be transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the spherical controller200in the catch game small, and it is also possible to solve a problem due to the delay in the transmission and reception of data.

Next, with reference toFIGS. 18 to 22, a description is given of an example of a specific process executed by the game system1in the exemplary embodiment.FIG. 18is a diagram showing an example of a data area set in the DRAM85of the main body apparatus2in the exemplary embodiment. Further,FIG. 19is a diagram showing an example of a data area set in the memory324of the spherical controller200according to the exemplary embodiment. It should be noted that in the DRAM85and the memory324, in addition to the data shown inFIGS. 18 and 19, data used in another process is also stored, but is not described in detail here.

In a program storage area of the DRAM85, various programs Pa, which are executed by the game system1, are stored. In the exemplary embodiment, as the various programs Pa, a communication program for wirelessly communicating with the spherical controller200, an application program for performing information processing (e.g., game processing) based on data acquired from the spherical controller200, and the like are stored. It should be noted that the various programs Pa may be stored in advance in the flash memory84, or may be acquired from a storage medium attachable to and detachable from the game system1(e.g., a predetermined type of a storage medium attached to the slot23) and stored in the DRAM85, or may be acquired from another apparatus via a network such as the Internet and stored in the DRAM85. The processor81executes the various programs Pa stored in the DRAM85.

Further, in a data storage area of the DRAM85, various data used for processes such as a communication process and information processing executed by the game system1is stored. In the exemplary embodiment, in the DRAM85, operation data Da, inertia data Db, catch target data Dc, catch target reproduction data Dd, reproduction instruction data De, catch game flag data Df, informing flag data Dg, ball object action data Dh, catch target character action data Di, player character action data Dj, timing effect action data Dk, image data Dm, and the like are stored.

The operation data Da is operation data appropriately acquired from the spherical controller200. As described above, operation data transmitted from the spherical controller200includes information regarding an input (specifically, information regarding an operation or the detection result of the inertial sensor247) from each of the input sections (specifically, the joystick212, the button sensing section258, and the sensing circuit322). In the exemplary embodiment, operation data is transmitted in a predetermined cycle from the spherical controller200through wireless communication, and the operation data Da is appropriately updated using the received operation data. It should be noted that the update cycle of the operation data Da may be such that the operation data Da is updated every frame, which is the cycle of the processing described later executed by the main body apparatus2, or is updated every cycle in which the above operation data is transmitted through the wireless communication.

The inertia data Db is data indicating accelerations and/or angular velocities generated in the spherical controller200. For example, the inertia data Db includes data indicating accelerations generated in the xyz axis directions, except for the gravitational acceleration generated in the spherical controller200, data indicating angular velocities about the xyz axes generated in the spherical controller200, and/or the like.

The catch target data Dc is data indicating a catch target (the catch target character HC) set in a catch game.

The catch target reproduction data Dd includes sound data Dd1, light emission color data Dd2, and the like. The sound data Dd1is data indicating a sound to be output from the vibration section271, corresponding to the catch target (the catch target character HC) set in the catch game, and is, for example, data indicating the cry of the catch target character HC caught in the ball object B. The light emission color data Dd2is data indicating a color in which the light-emitting section248is caused to emit light corresponding to the catch target (the catch target character HC) set in the catch game.

The reproduction instruction data De is data for instructing the spherical controller200to emit a sound and/or light, and for example, includes the reproduction instruction data ID1to ID10indicated in accordance with the game situation.

The catch flag data Df is data indicating a catch flag that is set to on when the catch game is performed. The informing flag data Dg is data indicating an informing flag that is set to on during the period from when a throw operation is performed to when the user is informed of the success or failure of the catch.

The ball object action data Dh is data indicating the position, the orientation, the action, and the like of the ball object B in the virtual space. The catch target character action data Di is data indicating the position, the orientation, the action, and the like of the catch target character HC in the virtual space. The player character action data Dj is data indicating of the position, the direction, the orientation, the action, and the like of the player character PC in the virtual space. The timing effect action data Dk is data indicating the position, the size, the action, and the like of the catch timing image TM.

The image data Dm is data for displaying images (e.g., an image of the player character PC, an image of the catch target character HC, an image of the ball object B, an image of another virtual object, a field image, a background image, and the like) on the display12of the main body apparatus2or a display screen of the stationary monitor6when a game is performed.

In a program storage area of the memory324, various programs Pb to be executed by the spherical controller200are stored. In the exemplary embodiment, as the various programs Pb, a communication program for wirelessly communicating with the main body apparatus2, an application program for performing a process based on reproduction instruction data acquired from the main body apparatus2, and the like are stored. It should be noted that the various programs Pb may be stored in advance in the memory324, or may be acquired from the main body apparatus2and stored in the memory324. The control section321executes the various programs Pb stored in the memory324.

Further, in a data storage area of the memory324, various data used in processes such as a communication process and information processing to be executed by the spherical controller200is stored. In the exemplary embodiment, in the memory324, operation data Dw, inertia data Dx, common reproduction data Dy, catch target reproduction data Dz, and the like are stored.

The operation data Dw is operation data to be appropriately transmitted to the main body apparatus2. For example, the operation data Dw includes information regarding inputs from the joystick21, the button sensing section258, and the sensing circuit322. In the exemplary embodiment, operation data is transmitted in a predetermined cycle from the spherical controller200through wireless communication.

The inertia data Dx is data indicating accelerations and/or angular velocities detected by the spherical controller200. For example, the inertia data Dx includes data of detected accelerations generated in the xyz axis directions, data of detected angular velocities about the xyz axes, and/or the like and is transmitted in a predetermined cycle from the spherical controller200through wireless communication.

The common reproduction data Dy is sound data indicating a sound to be commonly output and light emission color data indicating a light emission color to be commonly output. For example, in the common reproduction data Dy, a sound and a light emission color to be output corresponding to a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2(e.g., the reproduction instruction data ID1to ID9) are specified. It should be noted that the timing when the common reproduction data Dy is written to the memory324may be the time when the spherical controller200is manufactured, the time when an application in the spherical controller200is updated, the time when a game application is installed on the main body apparatus2, or the like.

The catch target reproduction data Dz is sound data indicating a sound to be output corresponding to the catch target (the catch target character HC) and light emission color data indicating a light emission color to be output corresponding to the catch target. For example, in the catch target reproduction data Dz, a sound and a light emission color to be output corresponding to a reproduction instruction from the main body apparatus2(e.g., the reproduction instruction data ID10) are specified. It should be noted that the timing when the catch target reproduction data Dz is written to the memory324is the time when the catch target reproduction data Dz is transmitted from the main body apparatus2in accordance with the fact that the catch target (the catch target character HC) is set, or the like.

Next, with reference toFIGS. 20 to 22, a detailed example of information processing (game processing) according to the exemplary embodiment is described.FIG. 20is a flow chart showing an example of game processing executed by the game system1.FIG. 21is a subroutine showing a detailed example of a catch game process performed in step S140inFIG. 20.FIG. 22is a subroutine showing a detailed example of a catch success/failure notification process performed in step S160inFIG. 21. In the exemplary embodiment, a series of processes shown inFIGS. 20 to 22is performed by the processor81executing a communication program or a predetermined application program (a game program) included in the various programs Pa. Further, the information processing shown inFIGS. 20 to 22is started at any timing.

It should be noted that the processes of all of the steps in the flow charts shown inFIGS. 20 to 22are merely illustrative. Thus, the processing order of the steps may be changed, or another process may be performed in addition to (or instead of) the processes of all of the steps, so long as similar results are obtained. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, descriptions are given on the assumption that the processor81performs the processes of all of the steps in the flow charts. Alternatively, a processor or a dedicated circuit other than the processor81may perform the processes of some of the steps in the flow charts. Yet alternatively, part of the processing performed by the main body apparatus2may be executed by another information processing apparatus capable of communicating with the main body apparatus2(e.g., a server capable of communicating with the main body apparatus2via a network). That is, all the processes shown inFIGS. 20 to 22may be executed by the cooperation of a plurality of information processing apparatuses including the main body apparatus2.

InFIG. 20, the processor81performs initialization in the game processing (step S121), and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, in the initialization, the processor81initializes parameters for performing the processing described below. As an example, the processor81initializes each of the catch game flag indicated by the catch game flag data Df and the informing flag indicated by the informing flag data Dg to off. It should be noted that in the processing in this flow chart, the common reproduction data Dy is written to the memory324at the time when the spherical controller200is manufactured.

Next, the processor81acquires operation data from the spherical controller200and updates the operation data Da and the inertia data Db (step S122), and the processing proceeds to the next step.

Next, the processor81determines whether or not the catch game flag is set to on (step S123). For example, when the catch game flag indicated by the catch game flag data Df is set to on, the determination is affirmative in the above step S123. Then, when the catch game flag is set to off, the processing proceeds to step S124. On the other hand, when the catch game flag is set to on, the processing proceeds to step S140.

In step S124, the processor81performs a player character action process (step S124), and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, in accordance with an instruction content indicated by the operation data Da updated in the above step S122, the processor81causes the player character PC to perform an action in the virtual space. Then, the processor81sets the position, the direction, the orientation, the action, and the like of the player character PC in the virtual space, thereby updating the player character action data Dj.

Next, the processor81determines whether or not the player character PC finds a single catch target (the catch target character HC) from among a plurality of characters placed in the virtual space (step S125). For example, when the player character PC comes into contact with one of the plurality of characters placed in the virtual space, or when one of the plurality of characters placed in the virtual space is placed in the field of view of the player character PC, the processor81determines that the character is found as a catch target. Then, when the catch target is found, the processing proceeds to step S126. On the other hand, when the catch target is not found, the processing proceeds to step S129.

In step S126, the processor81sets the catch target, and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, the processor81sets the character found in the above step S125as the catch target (the catch target character HC) and updates the catch target data Dc using the catch target. Further, the processor81updates the catch target reproduction data Dd using data indicating a sound and a light emission color corresponding to the catch target character HC set as the catch target.

Next, the processor81transmits catch target reproduction data to the spherical controller200(step S127), and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, the processor81transmits the catch target reproduction data Dd set in the above step S126(the sound data Dd1and the light emission color data Dd2of the catch target character HC) to the spherical controller200. Then, receiving the catch target reproduction data, the control section321of the spherical controller200updates the catch target reproduction data Dz in the memory324using the received data.

Next, the processor81sets the catch game flag to on (step S128), and the processing proceeds to step S129. For example, the processor81updates the catch game flag indicated by the catch game flag data Df to on.

On the other hand, when it is determined in the above step S123that the catch game flag is set to on, the processor81performs a catch game process (step S140), and the processing proceeds to step S129. With reference toFIG. 21, the catch game process performed in the above step S140is described below.

InFIG. 21, the processor81determines whether or not the informing flag is set to on (step S141). For example, when the informing flag indicated by the informing flag data Di is set to on, the determination of the processor81is affirmative in the above step S141. Then, when the informing flag is set to on, the processing proceeds to step S142. On the other hand, when the informing flag is set to off, the processing proceeds to step S160.

In step S142, the processor81performs a catch target character action process, and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, based on a predetermined algorithm, the processor81causes the catch target character HC to perform an action in the virtual space. Then, the processor81sets the position, the direction, the orientation, the action, and the like of the catch target character HC in the virtual space, thereby updating the catch target character action data Di.

Next, the processor81determines whether or not a hold-up operation is performed (step S143). For example, when the operation data Da updated in the above step S122indicates that the hold-up operation (e.g., the operation of pushing in the joystick212of the spherical controller200) is performed, the determination is affirmative in the above step S143. Then, when the hold-up operation is performed, the processing proceeds to step S144. On the other hand, when the hold-up operation is not performed, the processing proceeds to step S147.

In step S144, the processor81transmits to the spherical controller200(seeFIG. 17) the reproduction instruction data ID1for causing the spherical controller200to output the sound of holding up the ball, and the processing proceeds to the next step. Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID1, the control section321of the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID1from the common reproduction data Dy and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (the sound of holding up the ball).

Next, the processor81initializes the ball object B (step S145), and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, the processor81sets the ball object B in the virtual space to a position and an orientation determined in advance, thereby updating the ball object action data Dh.

Next, the processor81starts a timing effect (step S146), and the processing proceeds to step S147. For example, the processor81starts a timing effect representation that the display form of the catch timing image TM (seeFIG. 13) sequentially changes (e.g., a representation that the size of a ring of the catch timing image TM sequentially changes), thereby sequentially updating the timing effect action data Dk.

In step S147, the processor81performs a ball object action process, and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, the processor81calculates the orientation or the position of the ball object B so that the ball object B moves in the virtual space similarly to the orientation or the action of the spherical controller200in real space calculated by the inertia data Db updated in the above step S122, thereby updating the ball object action data Dh. For example, based on accelerations and/or angular velocities generated in the spherical controller200indicated by the inertia data Db, the processor81can calculate a change in the orientation of and a change in the position of the spherical controller200from the initial position and the initial orientation in real space (the position and the orientation of the spherical controller200at the time when the hold-up operation is performed). Then, the processor81changes the initial position and the initial orientation of the ball object B in the virtual space based on the change in the orientation of and the change in the position of the spherical controller200, and thereby can move the ball object B in the virtual space similarly to the motion of the spherical controller200in real space. It should be noted that the ball object action process in the above step S147may be performed only when the process of initializing the ball object B in the above step S145is performed. In this case, after the hold-up operation is performed using the spherical controller200, the ball object action process in the above step S147is performed. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, as another example of the first data to be transmitted from a game controller, operation data (inertia data) corresponding to the orientation or the action of the spherical controller200is used.

Next, the processor81determines whether or not a throw operation is performed (step S148). For example, when the inertia data Db updated in the above step S122indicates that the throw operation (e.g., the operation of swinging the spherical controller200by a motion with a predetermined acceleration or more) is performed, the determination is affirmative in the above step S148. Then, when the throw operation is performed, the processing proceeds to step S149. On the other hand, when the throw operation is not performed, the processing of the subroutine ends.

In step S149, the processor81transmits to the spherical controller200(seeFIG. 17) the reproduction instruction data ID2for causing the spherical controller200to output the sound of the ball flying off, and the processing proceeds to the next step. Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID2, the control section321of the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID2from the common reproduction data Dy and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (the sound of the ball flying off).

Next, the processor81performs a catch success/failure determination process (step S150), and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, based on at least one of the timing when the throw operation is performed (e.g., the size of the catch timing image TM at the time when the throw operation is performed), the content of the throw operation (e.g., the magnitudes of accelerations generated in the spherical controller200), the level of difficulty of the catch of the catch target character HC, the empirical value of the player character PC, the number of catch tries, and the like, the processor81determines the success or failure of the catch of the catch target character HC.

Next, the processor81sets the informing flag to on (step S151), and the processing of the subroutine ends. For example, the processor81updates the informing flag indicated by the informing flag data Dg to on.

On the other hand, when it is determined in the above step S141that the informing flag is set to on, the processor81performs a catch success/failure informing process (step S160), and the processing of the subroutine ends. With reference toFIG. 22, a description is given below of the catch success/failure informing process performed in the above step S160.

InFIG. 22, the processor81performs a ball object action process (step S161), and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, the processor81calculates the orientation or the position of the ball object B so that the ball object B moves along a trajectory in the virtual space in which from the position of the ball object B at the time when the throw operation is performed, the ball object B reaches the position where the catch target character HC is placed, thereby updating the ball object action data Dh. As another example, the ball object B may move along a trajectory in which the ball object B does not reach the position where the catch target character HC is placed. As an example, in accordance with the strength of the operation of throwing the spherical controller200(e.g., the relative magnitudes of accelerations generated in the spherical controller200in the throw operation), the ball object B stops moving on the near side of the catch target character HC, or the ball object B moves along a trajectory in which the ball object B flies off beyond the catch target character HC.

Next, the processor81performs a catch target character action process (step S162), and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, based on a predetermined algorithm, the processor81causes the catch target character HC to perform an action in the virtual space. Then, the processor81sets the position, the direction, the orientation, the action, and the like of the catch target character HC in the virtual space, thereby updating the catch target character action data Di. It should be noted that in the catch target character action process in the above step S162, when the catch of the catch target character HC is failed, the catch target character HC may be caused to perform the action of escaping from the ball object B.

Next, in a representation performed during the period until the user is notified of the success or failure of the catch of the catch target character HC, the processor81determines whether or not the current timing is the timing when reproduction instruction data is transmitted to the spherical controller200(step S163). For example, as described with reference toFIG. 17, when the current moment is the timing when any of the reproduction instruction data ID3to ID7is transmitted, the determination is affirmative in the above step S163. Then, when the current timing is the timing when reproduction instruction data is transmitted to the spherical controller200, the processing proceeds to step S164. On the other hand, when the current timing is not the timing when reproduction instruction data is transmitted to the spherical controller200, the processing proceeds to step S166.

In step S164, in accordance with the game situation and the lapse of time, the processor81transmits any of the reproduction instruction data ID3to ID7to the spherical controller200, and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, as described with reference toFIG. 17, when the current moment is the timing when any of the reproduction instruction data ID3to ID7is transmitted, the processor81transmits any of the reproduction instruction data ID3to ID7as a target to the spherical controller200. Then, in accordance with the reception of any of the reproduction instruction data ID3to ID7, the control section321of the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to any of the reproduction instruction data ID3to ID7from the common reproduction data Dy and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data. Further, in accordance with the reception of any of the reproduction instruction data ID3to ID7, the control section321of the spherical controller200extracts light emission color data corresponding to any of the reproduction instruction data ID3to ID7from the common reproduction data Dy and causes the light-emitting section248to emit light in a color corresponding to the light emission color data.

Next, the processor81performs the process of lighting up the ball object B (step S165), and the processing proceeds to step S166. For example, when reproduction instruction data for causing the light-emitting section248of the spherical controller200to emit light is transmitted in the above step S164, the processor81sets the light-emitting part C as a part of the ball object B to the state where the light-emitting part C lights up or blinks in a light emission color indicated by the reproduction instruction data, thereby updating the ball object action data Dh.

In step S166, the processor81determines whether or not the current timing is the timing when the user is notified of the success or failure of the catch of the catch target character HC. For example, as described with reference toFIG. 17, when the current moment is the timing when the user is notified of the success or failure of the catch of the catch target character HC, i.e., the timing when the reproduction instruction data ID8or the reproduction instruction data ID9is transmitted, the determination is affirmative in the above step S166. Then, when the current timing is the timing when the user is notified of the success or failure of the catch of the catch target character HC, the processing proceeds to step S167. On the other hand, when the current timing is not the timing when the user is notified of the success or failure of the catch of the catch target character HC, the processing proceeds to step S172.

In step S167, the processor81determines whether or not the catch of the catch target character HC is successful. For example, when it is determined that the catch of the catch target character HC is successful in the catch success/failure determination process in the above step S150, the determination is affirmative in the above step S167. Then, when the catch of the catch target character HC is successful, the processing proceeds to step S168. On the other hand, when it is determined that the catch of the catch target character HC is failed in the catch success/failure determination process in the above step S150, the processing proceeds to step S170.

In step S168, the processor81causes the spherical controller200to output a sound indicating that the catch is successful, and transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID8for causing the spherical controller200to emit light in a color indicating that the catch is successful, and the processing proceeds to the next step. Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID8, the control section321of the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID8from the common reproduction data Dy and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (a catch success sound). Further, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID8, the control section321of the spherical controller200extracts light emission color data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID8from the common reproduction data Dy and causes the light-emitting section248to emit light in a color corresponding to the light emission color data (e.g., green).

Next, the processor81performs the process of lighting up the ball object B (step S169), and the processing proceeds to step S172. For example, the processor81sets the light-emitting part C as a part of the ball object B to the state where the light-emitting part C lights up or blinks in a color indicating that the catch is successful (e.g., green), thereby updating the ball object action data Dh.

On the other hand, in step S170, the processor81causes the spherical controller200to output a sound indicating that the catch is failed, and transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID9for causing the spherical controller200to emit light in a color indicating that the catch is failed, and the processing proceeds to the next step. Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID9, the control section321of the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID9from the common reproduction data Dy and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (a catch failure sound). Further, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID9, the control section321of the spherical controller200extracts light emission color data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID9from the common reproduction data Dy and causes the light-emitting section248to emit light in a color corresponding to the light emission color data (e.g., red).

Next, the processor81performs the process of lighting up the ball object B (step S171), and the processing proceeds to step S172. For example, the processor81sets the light-emitting part C as a part of the ball object B to the state where the light-emitting part C lights up or blinks in a color indicating that the catch is failed (e.g., red), thereby updating the ball object action data Dh.

It should be noted that the process of lighting up the ball object B in the above step S171is performed when the catch of the catch target character HC is failed. As another exemplary embodiment, a representation different from the representation that the ball object B lights up may be performed. As an example, in the above step S171, the processor81may not cause the light-emitting part C of the ball object B to light up or blink, but may perform a representation that the ball object B cracks open, and the catch target character HC escapes from within the ball object B, thereby updating the ball object action data Dh. In this case, the action of the catch target character HC escaping from within the ball object B may be set in the catch target character action process in the above step S162, the catch target character HC may continue to be set as the catch target again, and the catch game may be repeated a predetermined number of times.

In step S172, the processor81determines whether or not the current timing is the timing when a catch representation for representing the state where the catch target character HC is caught in the ball object B (the spherical controller200) is performed. For example, as described with reference toFIG. 17, when the current moment is the timing when the state where the catch target character HC is caught in the ball object B (the spherical controller200) is represented, i.e., the timing when the reproduction instruction data ID10is transmitted, the determination is affirmative in the above step S172. Then, when the current timing is the timing when the catch representation for indicating that the catch target character HC is caught is performed, the processing proceeds to step S173. On the other hand, when the current timing is not the timing when the catch representation for indicating that the catch target character HC is caught is performed, the processing proceeds to step S175.

In step S173, the processor81causes the spherical controller200to output the cry of the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful, and transmits to the spherical controller200the reproduction instruction data ID10for causing the spherical controller200to emit light in the base color of the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful, and the processing proceeds to the next step. Then, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID10, the control section321of the spherical controller200extracts sound data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID10from the catch target reproduction data Dz and causes the vibration section271to output a sound corresponding to the sound data (the cry of the catch target character HC). Further, in accordance with the reception of the reproduction instruction data ID10, the control section321of the spherical controller200extracts light emission color data corresponding to the reproduction instruction data ID10from the catch target reproduction data Dz and causes the light-emitting section248to emit light in a color corresponding to the light emission color data (e.g., the base color of the catch target character HC).

Next, processor81performs the process of lighting up the ball object B (step S174), and the processing proceeds to step S175. For example, the processor81sets the light-emitting part C as a part of the ball object B to the state where the light-emitting part C lights up or blinks in a color corresponding to the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful (e.g., the base color), thereby updating the ball object action data Dh.

In step S175, the processor81determines whether or not the catch game is to be ended. For example, when the period when the state where the catch target character HC is caught in the ball object B (the spherical controller200) is represented ends, or when the representation indicating that the catch of the catch target character HC is failed ends, the determination is affirmative in the above step S175. Then, when the catch game is to be ended, the processing proceeds to step S176. On the other hand, when the catch game is to be continued, the processing of the subroutine ends.

In step S176, the processor81sets each of the informing flag and the catch game flag to off, and the processing of the subroutine ends. For example, the processor81updates the informing flag indicated by the informing flag data Dg to off and updates the catch game flag indicated by the catch game flag data Df to off.

Referring back toFIG. 20, in step S129, the processor81performs a display control process, and the processing proceeds to the next step. For example, using the ball object action data Dh, the catch target character action data Di, and the player character action data Dj, the processor81places the ball object B, the catch target character HC, the player character PC, and the like in the virtual game space. Then, the processor81performs the process of generating a virtual space image obtained by viewing the virtual space from a virtual camera placed at a predetermined position, and of displaying the virtual space image on a display screen of a display device (e.g., the stationary monitor6). Further, using the timing effect action data Dk, the processor81performs the process of combining the catch timing image TM with the virtual space image such that the catch timing image TM is included in the virtual space image, and displaying the virtual space image on the display screen of the display device.

Next, the processor81determines whether or not the game is to be ended (step S130). Examples of a condition for ending the game in the above step S130include the fact that the result of the game is finalized, the fact that a user performs the operation of ending the game, and the like. When the game is not to be ended, the processing returns to the above step S122, and the process of step S122is repeated. When the main game is to be ended, the processing of the flow chart ends. Hereinafter, the series of processes of steps S122to S130is repeatedly executed until it is determined in step S130that the game is to be ended.

As described above, in the exemplary embodiment, by operating the spherical controller200, the spherical controller200outputs a sound corresponding to the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful (e.g., the cry). Thus, it is possible to increase a realistic feeling in a game where the catch target character HC is caught. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, by operating the spherical controller200, the spherical controller200emits light in the base color of the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful. Thus, it is possible to further increase a realistic feeling in the game where the catch target character HC is caught.

It should be noted that in the above description, an example has been used where immediately after the catch of the catch target character HC is successful, the spherical controller200outputs a sound corresponding to the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful (e.g., the cry), and the spherical controller200emits light in the base color of the catch target character HC. Consequently, it is possible to give the user a feeling as if the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful is in the spherical controller200. Such a representation, however, may be performed outside the period immediately after the catch is successful. As a first example, catch target reproduction data stored in the spherical controller200when the catch target is set is maintained also after the catch game, whereby using as a trigger the fact that a predetermined operation (e.g., the operation of swinging the spherical controller200, a tilt operation on the joystick21, a pressing operation on the operation surface213, or the like) is performed on the spherical controller200at any timing during the above game, the spherical controller200may output a sound corresponding to the catch target character HC, and the spherical controller200may emit light in the base color of the catch target character HC. As a second example, even in the state where the main body apparatus2and the spherical controller200do not wirelessly communicate with each other, i.e., the state where the above game is not performed, then using as a trigger the fact that a predetermined operation is performed on the spherical controller200, the spherical controller200may output a sound corresponding to the catch target character HC, and the spherical controller200may emit light in the base color of the catch target character HC. In the second example, catch target reproduction data used in the representation is transmitted from the main body apparatus2and stored in the spherical controller200. Alternatively, catch target reproduction data stored when the catch target is set in the catch game may be maintained until the representation is performed, and may be used. Yet alternatively, catch target reproduction data stored in the spherical controller200by performing the process of transferring the catch target reproduction data from the main body apparatus2to the spherical controller200during the period when the above catch game is not performed may be used in the representation. In the second example, even in the state where the main body apparatus2and the spherical controller200do not wireless communicate with each other, the representation can be performed. Thus, it is possible to give the user a feeling as if carrying out the spherical controller200in the state where the catch target character HC is stored in the spherical controller200.

Further, in the above exemplary embodiment, an example has been used where the spherical controller200outputs a sound corresponding to the catch target character HC (e.g., the cry). A vibration corresponding to the catch target character HC may be imparted to the spherical controller200. In this case, catch target reproduction data stored in the spherical controller200may not include a sound signal having a frequency in the audible range for causing the vibration section271to output a desired sound, and may include only a vibration signal having a frequency outside the audible range for causing the vibration section271to perform a vibration in a waveform corresponding to the catch target character HC.

Further, in the above description, an exemplary game in a case where a single user operates the spherical controller200has been used. Alternatively, in the exemplary embodiment, multiplayer play is also possible in which a plurality of users play a catch game by operating the spherical controller200and/or another controller (e.g., the left controller3or the right controller4). In this case, it is possible that the users operate different player characters PC, whereby player characters PC throw different ball objects B to a single catch target character HC. When a catch game based on such multiplayer play is performed, then in accordance with the fact that a single catch target character HC as a catch target is selected and set, the type of catch target reproduction data corresponding to the catch target character HC is transmitted from the main body apparatus2to a plurality of controllers (e.g., a plurality of spherical controllers200) and stored in the plurality of controllers. Then, as an example, when any of the users succeeds in catching the catch target character HC, all the plurality of controllers200output a sound corresponding to the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful, and all the plurality of controllers200emit light in the base color of the catch target character HC. Further, as another example, when any of the users succeeds in catching the catch target character HC, only the controller of the user outputs a sound corresponding to the catch target character HC of which the catch is successful, and only the controller emits light in the base color of the catch target character HC.

Further, in the above description, an example has been used where the operation determination process and the process of outputting a sound, a vibration, and light from the spherical controller200are performed by the main body apparatus2. Alternatively, at least a part of these processes may be performed by the spherical controller200. For example, the process of calculating the accelerations, the angular velocities, and the orientation of the spherical controller200, the process of calculating the axial directions of the spherical controller200and the amounts of change in the axial directions, the process of calculating an acceleration generated in the spherical controller200(a gravitational acceleration), and the like may be performed in the spherical controller200. Further, the process of causing the vibration section271to output a sound and/or a vibration and the process of causing the light-emitting section248to emit light may be performed in the spherical controller200. As an example, using as a trigger the fact that the main body apparatus2or the spherical controller200determines that the operation of throwing the spherical controller200is performed, the control section321in the spherical controller200may control the operation of the vibration section271, whereby the process of controlling a sound and/or a vibration to be output from the vibration section271may be performed in the spherical controller200. As another example, in accordance with the arrival of a predetermined timing, the control section321in the spherical controller200may control the vibration section271to output a predetermined sound and/or a predetermined vibration.

Further, in the above exemplary embodiment, a method for detecting the motion or the orientation of the spherical controller200is a mere example. Alternatively, the motion or the orientation of the spherical controller200may be detected using another method or another piece of data. Further, in the above exemplary embodiment, a game image corresponding to an operation using the spherical controller200is displayed on the stationary monitor6, but may be displayed on the display12of the main body apparatus2. Further, the controller for controlling the action of the player character PC may be not only the spherical controller200, but also another controller.

Further, in the above exemplary embodiment, the spherical controller200includes as a direction input section a joystick including a shaft portion that allows a tilt operation. Here, in another exemplary embodiment, the spherical controller200may include as a direction input section any input device that allows a direction input. As an example, a direction input section of the spherical controller200may be an input device including a slidable slide portion (specifically, a slide stick). Further, as another example, a direction input section of the spherical controller200may be a directional pad.

Further, in the above exemplary embodiment, a game controller (i.e., the spherical controller200) of which the outer shape is spherical has been described as an example. Here, in another exemplary embodiment, the outer shape of the game controller may be any shape. For example, further, the spherical controller200may include a transmission section (i.e., the communication section323) that transmits information (e.g., information regarding an operation on the joystick and information regarding an operation on the operation surface) to outside. Here, “transmit information to outside” includes a form in which information is transmitted to not only the main body apparatus2but also any other apparatus different from the spherical controller200. That is, the spherical controller200may be able to communicate with an information processing apparatus of another type different from the main body apparatus2. For example, the main body apparatus2may be composed of a smartphone or a tablet. Alternatively, the spherical controller200may be able to wirelessly communicate with a smartphone and/or a tablet. Yet alternatively, the spherical controller200may be able to wirelessly communicate with a mobile game apparatus of another type different from the main body apparatus2. Further, the spherical controller200may communicate with another game controller (e.g., the above spherical controller200). At this time, information from the spherical controller200may be transmitted to an information processing apparatus (e.g., the main body apparatus2) via the other game controller.

Further, communication between the spherical controller200and another apparatus may be wireless communication or wired communication. Further, the spherical controller200may be used not only for game use but also for another use. For example, in a case where an information processing program (e.g., a browser) different from a game program is executed by the main body apparatus2, the spherical controller200may be a controller (in other words, an operation device) used to perform an operation regarding the information processing program.

Further, in the above exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting section248is included in the spherical controller200. As another exemplary embodiment, as a light-emitting section included in the spherical controller200, in addition to (or instead of) the light-emitting section248, a display screen (e.g., a liquid crystal screen or an organic EL screen) may be included in at least a part of the outer surface of the spherical controller200. In this case, as another exemplary embodiment, the light emission of the spherical controller200corresponding to the caught catch target character HC may be a pattern using a plurality of colors displayed on the display screen. Further, as another exemplary embodiment, the light emission of the spherical controller200corresponding to the caught catch target character HC may be an image of at least a part of the catch target character HC displayed on the display screen.

Further, an additional apparatus (e.g., a cradle) may be any additional apparatus attachable to and detachable from the main body apparatus2. The additional apparatus may or may not have the function of charging the main body apparatus2as in the exemplary embodiment.

Further, the game system1may be any apparatus, and may be a mobile game apparatus, any mobile electronic device (a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a mobile phone, a smart device (a smartphone or the like), a personal computer, a camera, a tablet, or the like. If these pieces of hardware can execute a game application, any of these pieces of hardware can function as a game apparatus.

Further, the above descriptions have been given using an example where the game system1performs information processing (game processing) and a communication process. Alternatively, another apparatus may perform at least some of the processing steps. For example, if the game system1is further configured to communicate with another apparatus (e.g., another server, another image display device, another game apparatus, or another mobile terminal), the other apparatus may move in conjunction with to perform the processing steps. Another apparatus may thus perform at least some of the processing steps, thereby enabling processing similar to that described above. Further, the above information processing (game processing) can be performed by a processor or the cooperation of a plurality of processors, the processor or the plurality of processors included in an information processing system including at least one information processing apparatus. Further, in the above exemplary embodiment, information processing can be performed by the processor81of the game system1executing a predetermined program. Alternatively, part or all of the processing of the flow charts may be performed by a dedicated circuit included in the game system1.

Here, according to the above variations, it is possible to achieve the exemplary embodiment also by a system form such as cloud computing, or a system form such as a distributed wide area network or a local area network. For example, in a system form such as a distributed local area network, it is possible to execute the processing between a stationary information processing apparatus (a stationary game apparatus) and a mobile information processing apparatus (a mobile game apparatus) by the cooperation of the apparatuses. It should be noted that, in these system forms, there is no particular limitation on which apparatus performs the above processing. Thus, it goes without saying that it is possible to achieve the exemplary embodiment by sharing the processing in any manner.

Further, the processing orders, the setting values, the conditions used in the determinations, and the like that are used in the information above processing are merely illustrative. Thus, it goes without saying that the exemplary embodiment can be achieved also with other orders, other values, and other conditions.

Further, the above program may be supplied to the game system1not only through an external storage medium such as an external memory, but also through a wired or wireless communication link. Further, the program may be stored in advance in a non-volatile storage device included in the apparatus. It should be noted that examples of an information storage medium having stored therein the program may include CD-ROMs, DVDs, optical disk storage media similar to these, flexible disks, hard disks, magneto-optical disks, and magnetic tapes, as well as non-volatile memories. Alternatively, an information storage medium having stored therein the program may be a volatile memory for storing the program. It can be said that such a storage medium is a storage medium readable by a computer or the like. For example, it is possible to provide the various functions described above by causing a computer or the like to load a program from the storage medium and execute it.

While some exemplary systems, exemplary methods, exemplary devices, and exemplary apparatuses have been described in detail above, the above descriptions are merely illustrative in all respects, and do not limit the scope of the systems, the methods, the devices, and the apparatuses. It goes without saying that the systems, the methods, the devices, and the apparatuses can be improved and modified in various manners without departing the spirit and scope of the appended claims. It is understood that the scope of the systems, the methods, the devices, and the apparatuses should be interpreted only by the scope of the appended claims. Further, it is understood that the specific descriptions of the exemplary embodiment enable a person skilled in the art to carry out an equivalent scope on the basis of the descriptions of the exemplary embodiment and general technical knowledge. When used in the specification, the components and the like described in the singular with the word “a” or “an” preceding them do not exclude the plurals of the components. Furthermore, it should be understood that, unless otherwise stated, the terms used in the specification are used in their common meanings in the field. Thus, unless otherwise defined, all the jargons and the technical terms used in the specification have the same meanings as those generally understood by a person skilled in the art in the field of the exemplary embodiment. If there is a conflict, the specification (including definitions) takes precedence.

As described above, the exemplary embodiment can be used as a game system, a game processing method, a game program, a game apparatus, a game controller, and the like that are capable of increasing a realistic feeling in a game where a game controller is used.